How does MS affect the Central Nervous System?

The myelin around the nerve fibres in the CNS becomes damaged in multiple locations. It deteriorates causing slowing down, distortion or in severe cases, complete blockage of the flow of messages along the nerves.

It is the protein in the myelin sheath which is attacked. This process is associated with inflammation of the nerve.

The inflammation of the myelin may subside leaving no permanent damage, however if the disease continues, fibrous scar tissue known as plaques or sclerosis is left. This process is known as demyelinisation and because scarring can occur in many parts of the CNS it is known as Multiple Sclerosis.

A person with MS may experience one or several symptoms which will vary from person to person. The symptoms may include:

• Extreme fatigue
• Heat sensitivity
• Muscle weakness
• Balance & coordination difficulties
• Numbness & other changes in sensation
• Visual problems
• Bladder problems
• Cognitive changes.